What Entertained the Founding Fathers, presented by Robert Viagas at Great Neck Library

In honor of the America 250 milestone, Robert Viagas explores the authentic dances, songs, and theatrical productions of the era. This presentation offers unique cultural samples to provide a humanizing look at the creators of the United States.

Robert will explore how the hit Broadway musical Hamilton showed the Founding Fathers (and Mothers) rapping and dancing. But what did they actually do for entertainment? Yes, they danced, but what kinds of dances? Yes, they sang, but what kinds of songs? Yes, they attended the theatre and listened to concerts, but which shows? And where? What stimulated their imaginations as they were forming a new nation?

Robert Viagas is an author and lecturer specializing in theatre, film—and ghosts. He spent 24 years as managing editor of Playbill, the theatre program company in New York. He's also the published author of 23 books, with two more on the way. He's turned his research into entertaining and informative lectures for libraries and colleges across Long Island.

The lecture will be at the Great Neck Library, 159 Bayview Avenue, Great Neck, on Tuesday, June 16, at 2:00 p.m. Registration is not required; seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, please call Great Neck Library at (516) 466-8055 or email adultprogramming@greatnecklibrary.org.